This may be the busiest shopping day of the year but many Iowans will avoid the malls entirely by pointing and clicking instead. Bob Brammer, spokesman for the Iowa Attorney General’s office, says online shoppers need to beware as they navigate through cyber-malls looking for holiday deals. He recommends shopping with a reputable company that has a good track record and a website that lists an address and an 800-number you can call if you have any trouble. As the month of December looms, many web-based businesses will be doing a bang-up business, but Brammer says Iowa computer users need to make sure they don’t get banged up in the process. He says to look carefully at the website before you leap into what appears to be a good gift buy; make sure what the refund policies are and the costs of shipping and handling. Brammer says hard copies of all transactions are a must, especially if there’s ever a problem down the road. He says shopping online with a credit card is the best way to go. If there’s a problem, the bill can be easily disputed and payment can be withheld by your credit card company to protect you — versus using a debit card or money order.
